The Kenya Meteorological Service Authority (KMSA) has urged residents to take precautions during the ongoing October–December (OND) rainfall season after heavy storms hit Kisumu East on the afternoon of October 8, 2026.
In an advisory issued on Thursday, October 8, the weather agency urged the public to stay updated on official weather forecasts and warnings as the rainy season continues.
KMSA cautioned residents against seeking shelter under trees during thunderstorms and advised motorists and pedestrians to avoid flooded roads, waterways, and low-lying areas.
The agency also urged the public to avoid outdoor activities during heavy storms to reduce the risk of harm.
“Heavy storms was experienced in Kisumu East-afternoon 8 October 2026. As we continue through the October–December (OND) rainfall season, the Kenya Meteorological Service Authority (KMSA) reminds the public to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions: Stay updated with the latest official weather information and warnings,” read part of the statement.
KMSA Safety Precautions During Heavy Rainfall
According to KMSA, residents should remain alert to possible flash floods, avoid walking or driving through flooded roads and moving water, and stay away from trees during thunderstorms.
Those living in landslide-prone areas should watch for signs of soil movement and rockfalls.
The agency also advises residents to secure loose roofing materials, keep away from weak structures during strong winds, and monitor official weather forecasts and warnings throughout the October–December rainfall season.
KMSA also advises property owners to secure loose roofing materials and check buildings for structural weaknesses, particularly older structures that may be vulnerable to strong winds.
During thunderstorms, residents should avoid sheltering under trees or standing near windows to reduce the risk of injury from lightning strikes and falling debris.
Also Read: Govt Names County at Highest Risk as El Niño Rains Approach
How Storms Hit Kisumu
Property was damaged in Kisumu on Thursday after a brief but intense downpour, accompanied by strong winds, swept through the lakeside city.
The storm disrupted businesses and forced traders who had taken shelter along building corridors to seek safer spots as trees, billboards and sections of walls were brought down by the winds.
Fallen billboards struck parked vehicles, while broken tree branches fell onto power lines, highlighting the damage caused by the storm, which lasted approximately 20 minutes.
Also Read: El Niño Is Coming. Here Are the Three Floods Kenya Should Prepare For
Kisumu County Commissioner Ramadhan Mwabudzo said the damage caused by the storm had renewed concerns about the stability of aging buildings, billboards and other structures across the city.
He urged landlords and tenants to inspect their premises as the rainy season intensifies, noting that many of the affected buildings were old and stood in areas with similar developments.
Mwabudzo said the administration was concerned that weak or poorly maintained structures could collapse or sustain further damage, putting business owners, customers, tenants and passers-by at risk.
“We have asked landlords and tenants to check their buildings before the rains. We have to be cautious about our environment because there are so many people who rely on these businesses,” Mwabudzo said.
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